This unit of study will introduce students to the micro-organisms that cause human disease and the host's immune response associated with micro-organism infection. The nature and classification of micro-organisms including bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa and helminths will be covered. The growth requirements of micro-organisms, microbial genetics and host-microbe interaction are discussed within the context of infection control. The source and mode of transmission of infectious agents and their health impacts are highlighted. Principles of safe clinical practice, antibiotics, epidemiology, and analytical methods are also covered. The application of microbiology in medicine, industry and biological products are emphasized. The basic concepts of immunology and how the individual components of the immune system work together to fight microbial infections will also be introduced.
Prerequisites
RBM1528 - Human Physiology 2 or
RBF1310 - Biology 1
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Learning Outcomes
| 1. | Identify and describe the differences of main groups of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and helminths; | ||
| 2. | Discuss the growth and transmission of microorganisms associated with human health; | ||
| 3. | Assess the role of infection control in microbial disease prevention; | ||
| 4. | Evaluate fundamental knowledge of microbial genetics; | ||
| 5. | Contextualise the host defence mechanisms associated with microbial infections; and | ||
| 6. | Discuss the importance of microbiome, chemotherapeutic agents and epidemiology, and their relevance to health. |
Assessment
| Assessment type | Description | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Test | Two (2) Topic Tests (30 minutes each) | 25% |
| Report | Two (2) Laboratory Reports (800 words each) | 30% |
| Case Study | Case Study (1.5 hours) | 45% |
Required reading
Microbiology: an Introduction 13th ed.
Tortora, G.J., Funke, B.R. & Case, C.L. (2018)
Redwood City, California
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